STEM + Art Challenge: Nature-Inspired Mixed Media Journal
STEM + Art Challenge: Nature-Inspired Mixed Media Journal
Looking for a low-prep, creative STEM + art activity that encourages kids to explore nature, design solutions, and express themselves? This Nature-Inspired Mixed Media Journal Challenge invites students to build, experiment, and create using found and recycled materials.
Perfect for classrooms, homeschool, camps, makerspaces, and enrichment time.
The Challenge
Students design and create a three-panel art book using found or recycled materials, then transform it into a nature-inspired journal using mixed media.
This open-ended challenge promotes engineering thinking, creativity, and observation—with no “right” answer.
Part 1: Build the Book
Students create a sturdy three-panel book using cardboard, paperboard, or other found materials.
The book must:
- Have three inside panels/pages
- Be strong enough to hold glue, markers, or paint
- Open and close smoothly without damaging artwork
- Keep artwork protected when closed
Students are encouraged to think like engineers by testing folds, hinges, and materials before decorating.
Part 2: Create the Nature Journal
Using nature as inspiration, students turn their book into a creative journal.
Challenge requirements:
- Cover at least the three inside pages
- Use mixed media and/or found objects
- Focus on natural elements, such as:
- Plants, leaves, bark, or seeds
- Weather (rain, wind, sun, clouds)
- Outdoor memories or favorite nature experiences
Students can draw, paint, collage, glue, layer, and experiment.
Extra Ideas
- Add labels or short journal notes describing each page
- Create a cover title inspired by a nature theme
- Decorate the back of the book, too
At a Glance
- Ages: 6–12
- Grades: 1–6
- Time Needed: 45–60 minutes (or 2 shorter sessions)
- Group Type: Independent, Partners, or Small Groups
- Prep Required: Low
- Cross-Curricular: STEM • Art • SEL • Nature Study
Can this be done indoors?
Yes! Students can collect nature items ahead of time, use photos or drawings of nature, or reflect on past outdoor experiences—making this a flexible option year-round.
This challenge is ideal for:
✔️ STEM or STEAM lessons
✔️ Art integration
✔️ Nature journaling
✔️ Early finishers & enrichment
✔️ Mindful, creative learning
❤️This resource has been donated to educators by CreativeBrainsGrowHere.org
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